One of the first questions many people ask after deciding to divorce is, “How long will this take?”
The answer depends on several factors, including whether you and your spouse agree on major issues, whether children are involved, and how complex your financial situation is. While some divorces move relatively smoothly, others can take considerably longer.
Understanding the general timeline can help you set realistic expectations and better prepare for the process ahead.
At the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers, based in Torrance and serving clients throughout Los Angeles County, Orange County, the South Bay, and the San Gabriel Valley, we help clients navigate the divorce process efficiently while protecting their rights and long-term interests.
What Is the Shortest a Divorce Can Take in California?
California has a mandatory six-month waiting period before a divorce can become final.
This waiting period begins after the responding spouse has been formally served with the divorce papers (or has filed a formal response), not when the divorce petition is first prepared or filed.
Even if both spouses agree on every issue, the court generally cannot finalize the divorce before this six-month period has passed.
What Can Make a Divorce Take Longer?
While some divorces are resolved shortly after the mandatory waiting period, others may take many months—or even longer.
Common factors that can extend the timeline include:
- Disagreements over child custody
- Property division disputes
- Questions about spousal support
- Complex financial assets
- Business ownership
- Hidden asset concerns
- Delays in exchanging financial information
- Busy court calendars
The more issues the parties are able to resolve cooperatively, the more efficiently the case may move.
Does an Uncontested Divorce Move Faster?
Generally, yes.
An uncontested divorce is one in which both spouses reach agreement on all major issues, including:
- Property division
- Child custody
- Parenting time
- Child support
- Spousal support
Although California’s six-month waiting period still applies, uncontested divorces often involve fewer court hearings and less overall delay.
What Happens if My Spouse Won’t Cooperate?
Not every divorce proceeds smoothly.
If one spouse refuses to participate, delays providing financial information, or contests major issues, the divorce process may take longer.
Depending on the circumstances, the court may become involved to:
- Resolve disputed issues
- Set deadlines
- Order the exchange of financial information
- Schedule hearings
- Issue temporary orders while the case is pending
Even if one spouse is uncooperative, the divorce process does not necessarily come to a stop.
Can Anything Be Done While the Divorce Is Pending?
Yes.
Many people assume they must wait until the divorce is finalized before important decisions can be made. In reality, California courts can issue temporary orders while the case is ongoing.
These may address issues such as:
- Child custody
- Parenting time
- Child support
- Spousal support
- Use of the family home
- Payment of certain household expenses
Temporary orders can help provide stability while the divorce moves toward a final resolution.
Can Hiring an Attorney Help the Process Move More Efficiently?
Every divorce is different, and no attorney can guarantee a specific timeline. However, experienced legal guidance can often help avoid unnecessary delays by ensuring paperwork is completed correctly, deadlines are met, and issues are addressed as efficiently as possible.
An attorney can also help identify opportunities to resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation when appropriate, rather than prolonged litigation.
Why Experience Matters
Divorce is not just about reaching the finish line as quickly as possible—it’s about reaching the right outcome for your future. An experienced family law attorney can help you understand the process, protect your interests, and work toward an efficient resolution whenever possible.
With more than 30 years of family law experience, attorney Stuart E. Bruers has guided clients throughout Southern California through both straightforward and complex divorces, providing practical advice and trusted legal representation every step of the way.
Take the Next Step
If you’re considering divorce or have questions about how long your case may take, contact the Law Office of Stuart E. Bruers today. We represent clients throughout Torrance, Redondo Beach, Long Beach, Beverly Hills, Pasadena, and surrounding Southern California communities, helping individuals navigate the divorce process with confidence and clarity.